RUSSELL CROWE WILL BE ROBIN HOOD

Russell Crowe will star in a remake of Robin Hood - as a "noble" Sheriff of Nottingham. The 'Gladiator' star will take the lead role in 'Nottingham', a twist on the usual tale featuring the lawman as the hero working for a corrupt king. The "noble and brave" character will investigate a murder in which outlaw Robin Hood is the main suspect. An industry insider said: "It's a role that will suit Russell. The part is something he'll be able to get his teeth into." The film will also feature a love triangle between the Sheriff, Robin Hood and Maid Marion. The revisionist take on the Robin Hood legend will give the outlaw a darker side than previous versions. The idea was conceived by writers Ethan Reiff and Cyrus Voris, whose previous films include 'Bulletproof Monk'. Universal reportedly fought off a number of rival studios for the rights to make the film, including Warner Bros and New Line. A director is yet to be confirmed for the film, slated for a 2009 release, but both 'Gladiator' director Ridley Scott and 'Spider Man 3' filmmaker Sam Raimi have been linked with the project.